20 Best Things to Do in Old Town San Diego

The extensive list here offers plenty of ideas, from immersing yourself in the area’s rich heritage through museums and tours to indulging your creative side with workshops and craft-making.

Here you can learn about many interesting things to do in Old Town San Diego, view museum exhibits, and join walking tours. Pick up some of the brochures that talk about local attractions.

START AT THE ROBINSON-ROSE VISITOR CENTER

The California Department of Parks and Recreation has a Junior Ranger program for kids, making exploring state parks even more fun.

Become a Junior Ranger (And Other Kids’ Activities)

This walk through history passes by many historic buildings. There’s the Johnson House, built in 1870 by George Alonzo Johnson, a steamboat captain on the Colorado River.

Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour

Check with the Old Town Chamber of Commerce and Robinson-Rose Visitors Center to learn which museums are free and what their hours are.

VISIT THE FREE MUSEUMS IN OLD TOWN SAN DIEGO STATE HISTORIC PARK

At Old Town Market alone, you can browse 40 unique indoor and outdoor shops selling goods from Mexico, Ecuador, Guatemala, Peru, Vietnam, and other regions.

Go Shopping

It served as a general store, a courthouse, and a private residence. Upstairs, you’ll find San Diego’s first commercial theater.

Walk Through a Famous Haunted House — Whaley House Museum

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